Arkansas falls in finale vs. Florida

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Arkansas softball team fell 6-1 in the Southeastern Conference series finale against No. 4 Florida on Sunday at Bogle Park.

Arkansas (24-16, 8-6 SEC) was limited to one run on four hits behind strong pitching from Gator hurlers Stephanie Brombacher and Ensley Gammel. Florida (30-4, 12-2) extended its conference winning streak to nine games.

Razorbacks starting pitcher Hope McLemore (12-7) surrendered six runs (five earned) on seven hits through 5-2/3 innings. After allowing an unearned run in the first, the freshman retired 11 of the next batters she faced including nine straight before running into trouble again in the sixth. McLemore struck out five and walked only one.

Florida tallied an run in the top of the first inning to take a 1-0 lead on an RBI single by catcher Brittany Schutte.

Arkansas tied the game at 1-1 in the bottom of the fifth on an RBI single by third baseman Sandra Smith. The senior drove in right fielder Tori Mort who led off the inning with a double.

The Gators jumped back in front 6-1 in the top of the sixth inning after scoring five runs all via the home run. Second baseman Aja Paculba, center fielder Michelle Moultrie and Schutte each collected solo homers while third baseman Corrie Brooks added a two-run shot.

Gammel (8-0) picked up her second win of the series after working 2-2/3 scoreless innings in relief. The freshman allowed one hit while striking out three. Brombacher worked 4-1/3 innings in her 22nd start of the season. The junior allowed one run on three hits while walking three and striking out four.

Razorback junior Layne McGuirt allowed only one hit through 1-1/3 innings to close out the game.

Arkansas continues its five-game home stand with a matchup against No. 18/17 Tennessee on Wednesday at Bogle Park. First pitch for the midweek doubleheader is scheduled for 5 p.m.

Rankings are based on the ESPN/USA Softball and USA Today/NFCA collegiate softball poll released Tuesday.

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